Mpho Kgomo Bows Out Of The Taster Master SA After Tough Pasta Challenge

This week on The Taste Master SA, emotions boiled over as the contestants were taken on a culinary deep dive into the art of handmade pasta. A special masterclass from Scala Pasta/Bar’s Group Executive Chef Justin Barker and Head Chef Wesley Roos taught them how to craft filled pasta, like ravioli, entirely from scratch. For their challenge, the contestants had to create their own version of filled pasta, complete with sauce and garnish.

Unfortunately, it was the end of the road for Mpho Kgomo, who became the second contestant to be eliminated from the competition.

Hailing from Vosloorus, Mpho is a bold, heartfelt cook whose style is inspired by her grandmother and driven by creativity and innovation. While her journey on the show came to a bittersweet end, her vibrant personality and heartfelt approach to food left a lasting impression.

Mpho opens up after her elimination to reflect on the challenge, her growth, and what comes next in her food journey.

This week’s challenge asked for filled pasta from scratch. What was the biggest lesson or surprise you took from that experience?

The biggest surprise was the fact that I actually nailed making the pasta! I’ve been wanting to learn how to make pasta from scratch for a while now, and it finally happened. It was a proud moment for me.

Let’s talk about your dish. What did you make, and what story were you trying to tell through it?

I made pasta filled with a seafood mix. The story I was telling through this dish was all about my excitement to be in Cape Town for the first time. I wanted to celebrate that by focusing on seafood — because when you're in Cape Town, that’s the vibe!

The judges made the tough call to send you home this week. How did you feel when you heard their decision?

The judges’ decision crushed me, I won’t lie. But I understand why I had to leave. Honestly, it’s all Basil’s fault. The Queen of Garnish went home for not garnishing her plate! I’m still not over that!

In hindsight, is there anything you would have done differently in that challenge?

If I had my Sensodyne pin for extra time, I would’ve made it. That extra 10 minutes really makes a world of difference — especially when time management is such a key skill in The Taste Master SA kitchen.

The show is about growth just as much as it is about winning. What do you feel you’ve gained from being part of The Taste Master SA?

I’ve gained so many new skills.  I mean, I learnt how to make pasta from scratch! I saw that pap can be deep-fried and still taste amazing. Yes, you heard me right: pap! This experience showed me that as a cook, you never stop learning.Being on The Taste Master SA also made me realise that I’m actually doing the most. I used to doubt myself, but now,  especially after hearing ‘we’re proud of you’ from customers and judges,  I know I have every reason to be proud of myself too. Oh, and shoutout to KitchenAid — girl is about to start baking!

Even though your time on the show has come to an end, your food journey is far from over. What’s next for Mpho?

I’m focusing on growing my cooking page and exploring new cuisines using what I learnt on the show. I want to make an impact and I want to be seen by the restaurants I’ve always dreamed of working at. I’m also planning to go to culinary school to learn more about pastry. Watching the incredible work Lucky and Chevonne did in the kitchen made me want to be the Queen of Pastry too!

Catch new episodes of ‘The Taste Master SA’ every Tuesday at 19:30 on SABC 2, with repeats on Wednesdays at 13:00 and Sundays at 16:00. For more information, visit www.thetastemaster.co.za and make sure you follow The Taste Master SA on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X.